1 Many Indian traditions are beautiful, many are unusual, and some are very strange. To many outsiders who have visited India over the years, the traditions and ceremonies of Indians are the most colorful parts of their trip.2 India is a very religious country. Hinduism, Islam, Buddhism, and Sikhism are the most common religions in India. All of them have many traditions, ceremonies, and rituals that are important to Indian daily life. Many, if not most of India's celebrations and ceremonies, are based on one religion or another.3 Most of India's population is Hindu. Hinduism is the main religion in India. It is also the oldest religion in the world. For India's Hindus, the happiest and most important festival of the year is Diwali--celebration of lights and fireworks. Diwali is celebrated to remember a number of Hindu gods. It is celebrated for five days in November. During this celebration candies and firecrackers are very common.